The International Advisory and Monitoring Board (IAMB) on Iraq met in Washington, D.C. on February 12 and 13, 2004, and issued the following statement:

"The IAMB continues to attach the highest priority to finalizing the appointment of external auditors for the audit of the export sales of Iraqi oil, petroleum products and natural gas, and the operations of the Development Fund for Iraq, in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1483 of May 22, 2003. The IAMB agreed the Statement of Work for such audits with the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) and the CPA has invited proposals by February 18, 2004. The IAMB will work with the CPA to approve expeditiously the appointment of duly qualified external auditors.

"During the meeting the IAMB received a useful briefing on the financial functions and operations of the DFI by the CPA.

"The IAMB remains anxious to involve Iraqi nationals in its oversight work and resolved to continue to pursue the nomination of suitably qualified Iraqi nationals as Observers.

"The IAMB is pleased to announce the availability of a web site www.iamb.info which has been established to disseminate documentation and information related to its operations.

"The next meeting of the IAMB will take place in Kuwait on a date to be determined."